The Field Teen Center is partnering with Common Sense Media to bring free digital literacy workshops for teens to the Free Library throughout the 2025–26 school year.

Digital literacy is the ability to accurately discern facts from falsehoods or misleading partial truths online and then make sound decisions in response. This workshop series will cover topics that teens commonly encounter, such as scams, online privacy, AI-generated content, and more. Sessions are driven by discussion, allowing space for students to share their experiences and make their own decisions with a new awareness of the issues. Sometimes students will even have the opportunity to challenge themselves with a game!

Each workshop will take place in Room 25, on the Ground Floor of Parkway Central Library next to the Field Teen Center, between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. Participants are welcome and encouraged to attend all sessions, but each can be taken as a standalone. This series, like other programs at Field Teen Center, is open to individuals ages 12–18. Snacks will be provided.

See below for more information about each workshop:

It’s Giving AI: Thursday, November 6

Teens are increasingly using AI for school projects, social media, and their own personal creative expressions without understanding the full scope of legal and ethical implications. This workshop helps teens navigate these complex issues through an informative video about using AI responsibly and testing their eye for spotting AI-generated artwork.

Data for Sale: Monday, December 15

Companies are rarely transparent about how they're using, selling, and storing users' data. Sold or hacked data may result in teens receiving unwanted advertisements, marketing, or political targeting. Being thoughtful before downloading a new app or sharing personal information for a free product provides young people with more agency over their digital lives.

Trust Your Instincts: Wednesday, December 21

In today's hyperconnected world, everyone is a target for online deception. A key part of growing up and navigating our online lives includes knowing how to identify social engineering tactics, as well as recognizing "red flag" feelings and how to best respond to them.

AI Gets Me: Monday, February 23

Technology influences how we build and maintain friendships. And with recent developments in AI technology, we now have generative AI chatbots that can conduct what feels like a very real conversation. While this can be entertaining and helpful, it can also cause people to develop emotional connections with chatbots. But is this OK? In this workshop, teens will grapple with this question, reflecting on what makes human friendships special and unique.

Right My Wrongs: Monday, March 16

Everyone makes mistakes online — what matters is how we respond afterward. By playing an engaging card game, teens develop practical strategies for taking responsibility when online actions cause harm. They'll learn that digital mistakes, while impactful, can become opportunities for rebuilding trust and stronger relationships when handled with care and accountability.